Top 20 Gorges in Eastern Switzerland
Best canyons in Eastern Switzerland are characterized by deep river valleys and impressive rock formations. The region's landscape features gorges carved by glacial ice and rivers, some reaching hundreds of meters in depth. These natural formations often hold historical significance as ancient trade routes or sources of thermal springs. Eastern Switzerland offers a diverse range of canyon experiences, from narrow ravines to wide, open river landscapes.
Best canyons in Eastern Switzerland
- The most popular canyons is Tamina Gorge, a…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Tamina Gorge
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Source of our thermal water
The Tamina spring is not only the namesake of our thermal spa, but …
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Thur Waterfalls
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Wissbach Gorge Trail
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The Wissbach Gorge is a wildly romantic side valley of the Glatt between Gossau, Flawil and Degersheim. A covered wooden walkway leads hikers safely through the gorge. A paradise for families with children.
Text / Source: Outdooractive
outdooractive.com/de/route/wandern/ostschweiz-liechtenstein/gossau-wissbachschlucht-flawil/23425302
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Wissbach Gorge and Historic Power Plant
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Giessenfall Waterfall
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Ofenloch Gorge
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Geissbergtobel Gorge (Schluchtenweg Sevelen)
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views of our unique mountain world.
The special climate in the Geissbergtobel, namely cool, humid air, little sunlight, and barren soils, leads to a strict selection among the potential inhabitants.
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Tamina Thermal Spring
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The path to the spring itself is suitable for prams and wheelchairs, but you have to ask …
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Ofenloch and Waterfalls in the Neckar Gorge
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Mühletöbeli Gorge Waterfall
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Popular around Eastern Switzerland
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Tips from the Community
Very long, covered stairs, a bit strenuous uphill with a bike.
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The Steinach River's gradient has been used by the town's mills since ancient times. The Mühleggbahn, opened in 1893 as a water-ballast cable car, was later converted first into a cog railway and then into an inclined lift. It covers a distance of 323 meters and overcomes a height difference of approximately 70 meters.
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Fire pit at this location
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Tamina Gorge near Old Bad Pfäfers - 36.5°C, 8,000 liters per minute. Source of our thermal water The Tamina spring is not only the namesake of our thermal spa, but also the source of our healing spring water. Europe's most abundant thermal spring rises in the Tamina Gorge near Bad Ragaz and was discovered in the early Middle Ages (in 1242). Mysterious Tamina Gorge In the Tamina Gorge between Valens and the hamlet of Bonadivis, the water of the Tamina River carves its way up to 200 meters into the earth. The narrow rock crevice of the Tamina Gorge is approximately 750 meters long and 70 meters deep. Near Old Bad Pfäfers, the gorge widens, and a road now connects Old Bad Pfäfers with the town of Bad Ragaz. Deep within the mystical Tamina Gorge beats its heart: the inexhaustible spring from which healing, body-temperature thermal water has bubbled for centuries. Among others, the physician and alchemist Paracelsus praised the healing properties of the spring water in the 16th century, which is considered an acratotherm due to its low mineral content and temperature of 36.5°C. Text / Source: TAMINA THERME AG, Hans Albrecht-Strasse, Bad Ragaz https://www.taminatherme.ch/thermalwasserwelt/taminaschlucht-thermalwasser
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Sevelen Gorge Trail / 3.5 km circular hiking trail On this approximately 3.5 km circular hiking trail, you can experience nature and the environment in a different way. Is a glacial mill a type of coffee machine or a chicane in downhill skiing? Why is Liechtenstein actually African? And how can more than 1,300 different animals live on a single piece of wood? Bring your spirit of discovery and enjoy the mysterious atmosphere in the Geissberg Gorge or the magnificent views of our unique mountain world. The circular trail can be started from either the Glat parking lot or the town center near the civil defense installation. Simply follow the "Gorge Trail" markings and stay on these trails in the interest of nature and wildlife. The two other hiking trails, marked green and blue, offer a varied alternative to the adventure trail. Text / Source: Sevelen Municipal Administration, Hauptstrasse 54, 9475 Sevelen https://www.sevelen.ch/naturwanderungen/26930
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The mysterious atmosphere in the Geissbergtobel ravine or the magnificent views of our unique mountain world. The special climate in the Geissbergtobel, namely cool, humid air, little sunlight, and barren soils, leads to a strict selection among the potential inhabitants.
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Great gorge at Ofenloch, safety is mandatory
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Right on the edge of the old town is this small Mülenen gorge with waterfall, in St Gallen
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular canyons in Eastern Switzerland?
Eastern Switzerland offers a variety of impressive canyons. Among the most popular are Tamina Gorge, known for its thermal springs, and the Wissbach Gorge Trail, a wildly romantic area perfect for families. Visitors also enjoy the Geissbergtobel Gorge (Schluchtenweg Sevelen) with its mysterious atmosphere and circular hiking trail.
Are there family-friendly canyons in Eastern Switzerland?
Yes, several canyons are well-suited for families. The Wissbach Gorge Trail is particularly recommended, featuring a covered wooden walkway and numerous barbecue and rest stops. The Geissbergtobel Gorge (Schluchtenweg Sevelen) also offers an easy 3.5 km circular trail that is enjoyable with children.
Which canyons offer unique natural features like thermal springs or dramatic rock formations?
The Tamina Gorge is famous for its 36.5°C thermal springs, which emerge at a rate of about 8,000 liters per minute. The Viamala Gorge, carved by glacial ice and the Hinterrhein River, features smoothly polished rock faces up to 300 meters high and narrows to just a few meters in places. The Rhine Gorge, often called the 'Swiss Grand Canyon,' is known for its vast, open landscape, 400 meters deep and 13 kilometers long.
What historical significance do some of Eastern Switzerland's canyons hold?
The Viamala Gorge, meaning 'bad path' in Romansh, has a rich history as a challenging trade route dating back to Roman times. The Tamina Gorge is linked to the discovery of its healing thermal waters in the early Middle Ages, which led to the development of the historic Old Bath Pfäfers, Switzerland's oldest Baroque spa.
What outdoor activities can I do near the canyons in Eastern Switzerland?
Beyond exploring the gorges themselves, you can find numerous hiking opportunities. For example, you can discover routes like the '5-lake hike on the Pizol' or the 'Circular lake hike in Klöntal' as part of the wider Hiking in Eastern Switzerland guide. The Rhine Gorge is also popular for rafting, cycling, and exploring by train.
Are there any challenging canyons for experienced hikers or adventurers?
Yes, the Ofenloch Gorge, sometimes called the 'Grand Canyon of Eastern Switzerland,' offers deep gorges, caves, waterfalls, and spectacular paths, making it suitable for those who are sturdy and comfortable with heights. The Viamala Gorge also offers canyoning opportunities for beginners.
What is the best time to visit the canyons in Eastern Switzerland?
Many canyons are best visited during warmer months when trails are clear and water levels are suitable for activities like rafting. However, the Viamala Gorge is noted as being worth visiting even in bad weather. The Tamina Gorge offers a unique mystical atmosphere with a light spectacle during summer evenings.
Can I find viewpoints with panoramic scenery in the canyons?
The Rhine Gorge is particularly known for its expansive views, with various lookout points like the famous Il Spir platform near Flims offering 180° panoramic vistas. The Viamala Gorge allows visitors to descend 359 steps into its heart for an up-close natural experience.
Are there any canyons known for waterfalls?
Yes, the Geissbergtobel Gorge (Schluchtenweg Sevelen) features a waterfall that has carved its way through rock. The Ofenloch Gorge also boasts impressive waterfalls, where the Necker river falls around 100 meters over Nagelfluh rock.
What do visitors enjoy most about the canyons in Eastern Switzerland?
Visitors frequently praise the wild and romantic atmosphere, the impressive natural beauty, and the unique experiences offered. Many appreciate the well-maintained trails, the opportunity to get close to powerful rivers, and the combination of nature with historical or wellness aspects, such as the thermal springs of the Tamina Gorge.
Are there specific hiking trails associated with the canyons?
Yes, the Viamala Gorge is part of attractive trails like the Veia Traversina, which is a section of the ViaSpluga. The Geissbergtobel Gorge (Schluchtenweg Sevelen) offers a 3.5 km circular hiking trail. For more hiking options, you can explore guides like Waterfall hikes in Eastern Switzerland or Easy hikes in Eastern Switzerland.
Most popular routes in Eastern Switzerland
Most popular attractions in Eastern Switzerland
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